Deuteronomy 10:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 10:17
17 For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 10 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, fellowship, prayer. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 10:17
17 For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:
Analysis
The LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords—This superlative title (Elohei ha'elohim, God of gods; Adonei ha'adonim, Lord of lords) declares Yahweh's supremacy over all earthly and heavenly powers. In polytheistic ancient Near East, this affirmed Yahweh alone is divine; lesser 'gods' are either false or subordinate angelic beings. A great God, a mighty, and a terrible uses gibbor (mighty warrior) and nora (terrible/awe-inspiring), emphasizing God's irresistible power.
Which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward introduces stunning contrast: the supreme Sovereign is incorruptibly just—He cannot be bribed or swayed by status. Verse 18 applies this to defending the oppressed. Paul quotes this title in 1 Timothy 6:15 for Christ: 'King of kings and Lord of lords.' Revelation 19:16 places this name on Jesus's robe, identifying Him as Yahweh incarnate, the God who judges justly.
Historical Context
Moses declared God's supremacy as Israel faced Canaanite polytheism. The contrast between Yahweh's incorruptibility and pagan deities (often portrayed as capricious and bribable) would be stark to ancient hearers. This shaped Israel's understanding of justice.
Reflection
- How does God's impartiality challenge favoritism or prejudice in your relationships and church?
- What does Jesus bearing the title 'Lord of lords' reveal about His deity and eternal authority?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 7:21, Joshua 22:22, Nehemiah 9:32, Daniel 2:47, Acts 10:34, Romans 2:11
- References Lord: Revelation 19:16
- Parallel theme: Job 34:19, Ephesians 6:9